Top 10 WWE Returns in recent times

The year 2025 has been huge for WWE. Many iconic superstars and legends have made epic returns. These comebacks thrilled fans and shook up the WWE landscape. Each return brought fresh energy and unforgettable moments. Old rivalries were reignited. New storylines began. Some returns were surprises, others long-awaited.

From John Cena’s farewell to CM Punk’s clashes, the excitement was nonstop. The women’s division also saw powerful comebacks. Legends showed up to remind fans of WWE’s golden era. These returns changed matches, titles, and careers. Here’s a closer look at the top 10 WWE returns that are unforgettable.

1. John Cena – The Farewell Tour Begins

John Cena, the 16-time world champion, has retired from Money in the Bank in July 2024. All fans were in tears, but his life was still not over. The following year, he went on his farewell tour, traveling across Europe and the United States. Every show was packed. Every crowd cheered loudly. On June 9, 2025, Cena returned to RAW in Phoenix. This was part of his last run in WWE. He’s taking on some major names in the industry.

One of the highlights came at Backlash 2025, wherein he faced a longtime rival, Randy Orton. After an adrenaline-rushing fight, Cena came out on top while still holding the Undisputed WWE Championship. It was a classic face-off between two legendary figures. Cena’s farewell tour, a greeting of nostalgia and greatness, seems historic no matter the match. With every fight, fans know they are witnessing history in the making rather than just ordinary events. They realize that they’re watching the end of an era.

2. CM Punk – The Voice Returns

CM Punk returned to the WWE with fanfare on Survivor Series: WarGames in 2023, shocking everyone with his sudden act after almost a decade-long absence. At this point, in 2025, he is once again a major force. His matches have been deep, intense, and personal, one of which involved Seth Rollins in the steel cage. The feud involved was brutal and very emotional.

Punk has also competed at WrestleMania 41 against Rollins and Roman Reigns in a triple-threat match, which has become pretty famous this year. His return has also literally opened old rivalries. It has created new stories. His appearances in WWE RAW and SmackDown get some huge pops. Either way, though, Punk’s back on the top. CM Punk is once again at the very center of WWE. His return rewrites history’s present era.

3. Alexa Bliss – Twisted Return

Alexa Bliss was back in WWE on May 9, 2025, when an episode of SmackDown aired. The fans were going wild. She appeared with Zelina Vega in a tag team bout. Vega and she squared off against Chelsea Green and Piper Niven. Bliss and Vega had a convincing win. It was a good in-ring return for Bliss. Fans loved seeing her in action once again. But her comeback also generated some questions.

Many are unsure about her current direction. Some feel WWE has no clear plan for her. Others believe a bigger storyline is coming soon. A potential feud with Charlotte Flair has been rumored. That could bring Bliss back into the spotlight. Her character has evolved over the years. Fans hope for a meaningful arc this time. Alexa Bliss remains one of WWE’s most intriguing stars. Her 2025 return has people watching closely.

4. The Rock – Electrifying Surprise

The Rock surprised fans with a major announcement in 2025. He revealed his WWE return through social media. The post instantly went viral. He confirmed he would appear on an episode of SmackDown in New Orleans. Fans were thrilled to hear the news. The arena sold out quickly. When The Rock appeared, the crowd exploded with cheers. His presence brought back memories of the Attitude Era. WWE has not revealed full details about his role.

Speculation is running wild among fans and media. Many believe he could be part of WrestleMania 42. Others think he might challenge Roman Reigns. A tag match with another legend is also possible. Whatever the plan, The Rock’s return is a big deal. His star power still lights up WWE. Fans are eager to see what happens next. The Rock’s story is far from over.

5. Nikki Bella – Fearless Comeback

Nikki Bella made a dramatic return to WWE in 2025. She entered the Women’s Royal Rumble at number 30 at WWE Royal Rumble 2025. The crowd gave her a loud ovation. It was a powerful moment for fans of the Bella Twins. Nikki looked sharp and confident in the ring. Her return has sparked many possibilities. A reunion with her sister Brie Bella could be on the horizon.

Fans are already talking about a Bella Twins comeback. They may chase the Women’s Tag Team Championship again. Nikki’s return also adds star power to the women’s division. She could reignite old rivalries or start new ones. Her presence brings both nostalgia and excitement. WWE has yet to confirm her next move. But one thing is clear—Nikki Bella is back. And the women’s division just got more interesting.

6. AJ Styles – Phenomenal Return

AJ Styles made his return to WWE at the Royal Rumble 2025. He had been out with a serious Lisfranc injury. Fans were thrilled to see him back. Styles entered the match at number 21. He quickly made an impact by eliminating LA Knight. The crowd erupted with excitement. However, his run was cut short. Logan Paul eliminated him from the Rumble. That moment sparked a new rivalry. The two clashed on social media and in promos. It all built up to WrestleMania 41.

Styles faced Logan Paul in a high-profile match. Both men delivered an intense performance. The bout showed Styles still had plenty left in the tank. Since returning, he’s also feuded with younger talents. Styles is helping shape the next generation. His 2025 return has been impactful, exciting, and full of great matches. The Phenomenal One is back.

7. Becky Lynch – The Man Turns Heel

Becky Lynch made a shocking return at WrestleMania 41. She teamed up with Lyra Valkyria. Together, they won the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Fans were excited to see Lynch back. But the celebration didn’t last long. Shortly after, Lynch turned heel. She attacked Valkyria in a brutal assault. Then she revealed a dark secret. She was the one who had attacked Bayley weeks earlier. The WWE Universe was stunned.

This was Becky’s first heel turn since 2022. It changed everything about her character. She went from hero to villain in one night. Her actions have sparked fresh rivalries. The women’s division is now on high alert. Lynch’s return added fire to WWE storylines. “The Man” is back—darker and more dangerous than ever. Fans are eager to see what she does next.

8. Drew McIntyre – The Scottish Warrior’s Resurgence

Drew McIntyre made a comeback to WWE in December 2024-and what a comeback! McIntyre assaulted Sami Zayn backstage. Then, he shocked fans by revealing himself as the mystery attacker of Jey Uso. A wicked and shocking act. His return introduced a very rough and tough 2025. McIntyre rapidly became a huge threat on RAW.

At WrestleMania 41, he faced Damian Priest, and these two clashed in a Sin City Street Fight. It was violent, chaotic, and full of intensity. Everything in the ring was fair game for McIntyre. He made it clear as to why he deserves the title of Scottish Warrior. Every match since his return has kicked it up a notch. He has only one agenda: to rule the WWE again. McIntyre’s return lit a fire in his career. He is much more aggressive and focused now. And the fans are watching. McIntyre is on a missionary journey.

9. Naomi – Glow Returns with a Twist

Naomi returned to WWE at the Royal Rumble 2024. Fans welcomed her back with loud cheers. In February, she was officially drafted to SmackDown. She looked ready for a fresh start. But things took a dark turn. Naomi shocked everyone by confessing to an attack. She admitted to blindsiding Jade Cargill weeks earlier. This marked her first heel turn since 2016. The WWE Universe was stunned.

Naomi showed a new, more aggressive side. The feud with Cargill quickly heated up. Both stars exchanged intense promos and brawls. It all led to a match at WrestleMania 41. The spotlight was bright. The rivalry ended with Cargill defeating Naomi. Despite the loss, Naomi’s heel turn brought new life to her character. She’s unpredictable, bold, and dangerous. Fans are eager to see what Naomi does next.

10. Saturday Night’s Main Event – Legends Assemble

Nostalgia being the keynote for the Saturday Night Main Event for the year 2025, quite a few WWE legends turned up for surprise visits. The loud cheers heralded one Ted DiBiase walking down the ramp, followed closely by the presence of Mark Henry. Arn Anderson and Tully Blanchard, aka The Brain Busters, reunited by legend Dory Funk Jr., to rare-waving from “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, displaying his perfectly American flag. Alundra Blayze, bringing memories from the golden years of the WWE.

Honor the past, yet pay tribute to the stars of today, bridging the generations. It was a night to remember, not just for the fans but for everyone. This brings us to the end of Top 10 WWE Returns in recent times. Which return surprised you the most?